The Endocrine System

The endocrine system consists of glands or parts of glands whose secretions (called hormones) are distributed in the human body by means of the bloodstream.

The major organs of the endocrine system are the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, the thyroid gland, the parathyroid glands, the islets of the pancreas, the adrenal glands, the testes, and the ovaries. During pregnancy, the placenta also acts as an endocrine gland in addition to its other functions.

To find out more about the endocrine system point your mouse to the glands in the image.